Resolving similar abilities from multiple opponents

[Uqbarian]

If you have a group of opponents that have the same area-effect attack or ability, do their targets have to save against each instance of the attack?

(I think the answer is 'yes', but I'm not sure if I'm missing something obvious.)

For example, say the PCs are up against eight harpies. All of the harpies open up with their captivating song (300' radius, DC 16 Will save to resist). Do the PCs have to make twelve saving throws each? It seems to me that would mean a pretty high chance of failure, even for PCs with decent Will saves.

[Lady-J]

yes they could also aid another i would think to boost the dc by 2 making it one save at a dc 38(im uncertain tho but aid another can be used for like a bajilion things so?)

[Frencois]

Uqbarian wrote:

... say the PCs are up against eight harpies. All of the harpies open up with their captivating song (300' radius, DC 16 Will save to resist). Do the PCs have to make twelve saving throws each?

Yes, that's why harpies are dangerous. What would be the point for mermaids and the like to have a charm attack if there was always at least a PC saving and breaking the charm for the others?

Think about it, a full captivated group is much more fun in terms of challenge/roleplay than a mere "don't worry I made my save as usual, let's just spend 2 rounds to kill those girls".

[Uqbarian]

Fair enough! Thanks for those replies.

(I don't think they can aid another to increase the DC, though.)

[James Risner]

I don't think you can aid another to raise DC.

Also, you'd make 8 saves vs the song, but the song (should you fail multiple times) won't stack unless the effect gives stacking rules or "deals damage".